South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster said he supports the pending merger between Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern.
In a letter to the Surface Transportation Board, McMaster said it was South Carolina’s position as a hub for manufacturing, logistics and trade, that strong and efficient freight transportation is needed to support his state’s continued economic growth.
“I write in support of the proposed combination of Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern and to share my perspective on what this transaction could mean for the State of South Carolina,” McMaster wrote. “Over the last several decades, South Carolina has become a premier destination for investment in part because of the transportation networks necessary to allow businesses to compete and grow. As our state continues to grow, dependable transportation options are essential to moving raw materials and finished products, reducing congestion, improving safety, and supporting environmental stewardship. Expanding the role of rail can help advance each of these goals.”
McMaster said the proposed merger would provide opportunities to reinforce his state’s position as a national leader in commerce and trade.
Norfolk Southern said it appreciated the governor’s support.
“We are grateful to have Gov. McMaster’s support and appreciate his recognition of what this combination can mean for South Carolina and states across the country,” Norfolk Southern President and CEO Mark George said. “By creating more seamless single-line access to more destinations, the proposed combination would provide businesses with better service and greater reach, move an estimated 2.1 million truckloads off congested highways, and reduce costs for everyday consumers. Norfolk Southern has served South Carolina for generations, and this combination builds on that longstanding partnership by expanding access to western markets and strengthening the state’s role as a gateway for global commerce.”
In South Carolina, some 40 state and local leaders have voiced their support for the merger which would create a transcontinental rail network.